DLS Student Ambassador
- Varsha Dwarampudi
- Major: Genetics
- Minor(s): Health Administration
- Hometown: Marlboro, New Jersey
- Career Interest: I hope to become a physician, with a current interest in pediatric oncology and exploring how genetics can help us better understand childhood cancers and develop more personalized approaches to treatment.
- Fun Fact: I absolutely love gardening and spending time outdoors. I enjoy biking on the trails near my home and walking along the beach whenever I can, as being around nature gives me a sense of peace and makes me really happy! I also enjoy mentoring and tutoring, and throughout high school and college, I’ve always looked for opportunities to support and teach other students.
- Graduation Year: 2028
- What was your favorite class and why?:
My favorite class was History of Medicine & Ethics because it showed me how many of the ethical principles in medicine emerged from difficult and sometimes deeply troubling circumstances. One topic that particularly stood out to me was the “God Committee,” where physicians had to make life or death decisions about who would receive dialysis when resources were extremely limited. Learning about these moments in medical history made me realize how important it is for future physicians to look back with a curious and introspective lens, understand the mistakes and difficult decisions of the past, and use those lessons to help shape a more ethical and compassionate future for medicine.
- What other Rutgers activities and extracurricular activities do you participate in?:
As a Genetics major on the pre-med track, I am involved in a variety of clinical, research, teaching, service, and leadership activities. I served as a Learning Assistant for General Chemistry last year and will be a Calculus I Learning Assistant this fall, while also serving as an AACC Mentor and on the e-boards of RU Telugu and RU Shakti. Starting this fall, I will volunteer at the Rutgers Cancer Institute while continuing as a Health Buddies volunteer, providing phone based support, companionship, and wellness check ins to older adults experiencing recent health changes. I also conduct glioblastoma research in Dr. Alexander Steiner’s lab, work as a Medical Assistant, shadow physicians in hematology and oncology, and tutor students through private tutoring and LearnToBe.